Happy European Day of Languages 2026, everyone!

European Day of Languages is celebrated every year on September 26th. The annual campaign was launched in 2001 by the Council of Europe and the European Commission to honour the fact that linguistic diversity is a powerful means of fostering intercultural understanding, and a fundamental component of Europe’s rich cultural heritage.

With students, families, and staff from around the world studying, working, and living here at King's, we fully agree that multilingualism matters, so much so, that we have been celebrating European Day of Languages ALL week - and with pupils from Year 3 right the way through to Year 13!

At King's Ely Prep, we held a non-uniform day today (September 25th), for which pupils and staff were invited to come into school dressed in the colours of a European country's flag or a T-shirt from a European sports club or team. There was also a themed baking competition earlier in the week, which saw an incredible 46 cakes and sweet treats created, all celebrating the diversity of European cultures and wonderful range of backgrounds represented in our school community. Thank you to everyone who participated - your creativity and efforts were not only impressive, but the sale of your cakes has raised more than £400 for Macmillan Cancer Support and Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust.

At King's Ely Senior and Sixth Form, there have been European Day of Languages events and activities every single day this week, all coordinated by our fantastic MFL Department. Assemblies, student vs staff spelling bees, tutor quizzes, baking competitions, a non-uniform day, debating competitions, and a moving 'Languages Unite' themed Cathedral Assembly this morning (September 25th).

Madame Brigitte Bousquet, Head of MFL at King's Ely Senior, said: "At King’s, we strive to take language learning beyond the classroom. We see languages not only as school subjects, but as a way of connecting with the wider world and developing invaluable skills that will serve our students throughout their lives. This is why the MFL Department continually seeks opportunities for students to put their languages into practice in meaningful, real-life situations. This year’s European Day of Languages celebrations highlighted exactly that. It was also lovely to share several activities with King's Ely Prep, raising money for charity while bringing our communities together.

"The theme for this year’s European Day of Languages was Languages Unite, and this was beautifully reflected in our Cathedral Assembly. Mr Dabbs reminded us that: “When we learn another language, we are not just learning vocabulary or grammar – we are learning a different way of seeing the world. Every language carries its own history, traditions, values, and humour. It reminds us that there is not just one way to think, to express ourselves, or to belong".

"This was followed by some of our international students sharing their own experiences of speaking different languages and reflecting on what 'Languages Unite' meant to them. Their contributions were extremely thought-provoking and very much reflected what we aim to achieve through languages here at King’s. They spoke about languages helping us to see what we have in common rather than what separates us, allowing us to share our different roots and stories; and helping us build connections despite our differences. As one student put it, learning a language is not simply about speaking differently, but about understanding people, cultures, and the world around us. Sometimes, even the smallest conversation can create a connection."

Thank you to linguists from Stephen Perse Cambridge and Sancton Wood School for joining us for our MFL Debate - a truly fantastic opportunity for students to develop their oracy skills, confidence, and so much more, all by debating in a foreign language. Pupils tackled questions ranging from whether living in the countryside is better than living in a town, to whether social media should be banned for teenagers. Congratulations to every single student who participated - debating in front of an audience can be nerve-racking enough in English, let alone in French, German, or Spanish. Bravo also to King's students for defeating their teachers in every language in the spelling bees. Again, standing on stage in front of the whole school is daunting enough, without then having to spell words in a foreign language!